Featured Review: Asma Kazmi

Asma Kazmi This collection of photographs and videos by local artist Asma Kazmi provides a provocative glimpse into the unwitting art of certain indigent and impaired New Delhi city dwellers. Makeshift prostheses and other supportive devices, cobbled together from found materials, are shot by Kazmi as independent objects against a stark white backdrop and, as such, appear as both the ingenious products of necessity and sculptures with Duchampian and Surrealist sensibilities. The gaze is earnestly reverent: A rickshaw-like wheelchair made of old bicycle parts or a lower leg with a laced leather shoe for a foot is presented as a work of art rather than a mere curiosity. The accompanying videos — which feature the implements' owners — also make integrity of vision, rather than the oddity of affliction, their focus. It's a fine line to tread between aestheticization and objectification — and this exhibit seems to handle this challenge with tenderness and respect. Through December 18 at Webster University's Cecille R. Hunt Gallery, 8342 Big Bend Boulevard, Webster Groves; 314-968-7171 (www.websterhuntgallery.blogspot.com). Hours: 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Mon.-Sat. and by appointment.

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More About

• Asma Kazmi
• New Delhi
• Cecille Hunt
• Webster University

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